Two men charged with attempted murder after double stabbing on Columbia Street in Fall River

Monday

Jul 21, 2014 at 6:09 PMJul 21, 2014 at 6:12 PM

Brian Fraga Herald News Staff Reporter @BfragaHN

FALL RIVER — Two Fall River men are facing attempted murder charges related a double stabbing last month on Columbia Street.

The two victims, ages 21 and 26, said a group of five or six men assaulted them outside their residence after a fight at a house party on Canedy Street, according to police reports.

One victim was slashed across his back while the other had his forearm sliced. They were treated and released at Charlton Memorial Hospital, according to court documents.

Police said the investigation identified two suspects as Tri-Rell Jones, 23, of 217 Doyle St., and Edwin M. Pacheco, 23, of 477 Third St. Both were arraigned last Friday in Fall River District Court on charges that include two counts of armed assault to murder, aggravated assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and affray.

A judge set bail for both defendants at $5,000 cash. Defense attorneys said witnesses had conflicting stories and that it was “a stretch” for police to allege the pair conspired in a joint venture to assault the victims.

One of the victims said the incident stemmed from a spilled drink during the house party on June 13, although another witness said the victim was intoxicated and had been assaulting other guests, according to police reports.

The two stabbing victims said they went home after the house party when someone called them outside to fight. When the two men walked outside their residence, they claimed to be jumped by five to six men. One of the victims identified Pacheco as the man who stabbed him, according to police reports.

Jones and Pacheco are scheduled to return to court next month for probable cause hearings.